BMW Z4 Set for October Debut!

The Z4 is literally BMW's take on what a roadster ought to be. It's got the aura of classic roadsters complimented by the latest technology and gadgets. A lot has gone into the design of the car and even here you will find the 'classic meeting the future' look, for in true classic fashion the roadster boasts of a long stretched hood and short overhangs, of course the future aspect comes in from the sculpted flamed body panels and the pronounced wheel arches at the rear.

The interiors boast of low seats, which have incidentally been placed closer to the rear axle in order to provide great road feedback to the driver as well as stick with the roadster design theme. Loads of leather and that typical BMW quality of fit and finish can be found in abundance on the inside. Elegance meets sport is the underlying theme here and the Z4 is touted to fit that shoe with ease.

One of the most interesting features of the Z4 roadster is its retractable hardtop. The new Z4 happens to be the first BMW roadster to ever come with a hardtop. The hardtop is made up of two aluminum shells that are capable of closing in around 20 seconds. Whether you cruise around with the roof down or with it covered the Z4 has a striking look that cannot be matched by many. It's a modern day classic.

In terms of engine choices, BMW India has not disclosed too many details, however looking at what is available under the hood internationally does shed some light on things to come. One thing is certain about the engine option and that is the fact that no matter which Z4 you choose, you will receive a straight six under the hood. Internationally the Z4 is available with three engine choices, namely, the Z4sDrive 23i which churns out 204 hp, the sDrive 30i which makes 258 hp and the sDrive35i which churns out a whopping 306 hp.

In terms transmission options, BMW offers a 6 speed manual box on the Z4, however considering the fact that none of the BMW's in India have ever come in with a manual, the chances of seeing this great 6 speed box is most likely out of the question. On the other hand the seven speed sport automatic double clutch transmission which is only available on the Z4 sDrive35i does sound like a lot of fun and fits in with BMW India's plans of only introducing automatics for the country.

India has not been a traditional market for roadsters; however the likes of the Mercedes SLK and Porsche Boxter and Cayman are set to get some rather stiff Bavarian competition in the days to come.